How to Activate RCS Messaging on Your Android or iPhone

RCS, short for Rich Communication Services, is the next generation of SMS. It transforms standard texting into a richer experience, allowing users to send high-resolution photos, videos, and files, chat with businesses, and enjoy features similar to WhatsApp - all directly from their native messaging app.

But to take advantage of RCS, your device must be compatible and the feature must be activated. Whether you are using Android or iPhone, here is how to check and enable RCS messaging.

What You Need to Activate RCS on Android

Minimum Requirements:

• Operating system: Android 5.0 or later

• Google Messages app installed

• Internet connection: Wi-Fi or mobile data

Steps to Activate RCS on Android:

1. Open the Google Messages app. If not already installed, download it from the Play Store.

2. Tap your profile picture or the three dots in the top right corner.

3. Go to Messages Settings > RCS Chat Features or Chat Features.

4. Check the RCS status:

   • If it says Connected, RCS is active on your phone.

   • If it says Setting up or Connecting, wait a few minutes for activation.

   • If it says Not Connected, make sure you meet the requirements and try toggling the Enable Chat Features setting off and on.

How to Activate RCS on iPhone

Apple began rolling out RCS support with iOS 18.4, making it available across all major mobile carriers.

Minimum Requirements:

• iPhone running iOS 18.4 or newer

• Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data)

Steps to Enable RCS on iPhone:

1. Open your Settings app.

2. Go to Apps > Messages > RCS Messaging.

3. Toggle RCS Messaging on or off depending on your preferences.

With RCS enabled, iPhone users can now enjoy better group chats, read receipts, typing indicators, and higher-quality media when texting Android users.

Why Enable RCS Messaging?

Activating RCS on your phone unlocks a new layer of modern messaging features, including:

• High-resolution image and video sharing

• Group chat enhancements

• Typing indicators and message reactions

• Read receipts

• Verified business messaging with branding and clickable buttons

Whether you are communicating with friends or brands, RCS messaging makes every conversation more interactive and informative.

LINK Mobility and the RCS Opportunity

For businesses, RCS opens the door to a new era of mobile engagement. Branded messages, carousels, quick replies, and embedded call-to-action buttons can all be used to create rich customer journeys - directly in the messaging inbox.

As RCS adoption expands globally, LINK Mobility supports companies with RCS Business Messaging solutions tailored for both Android and Apple devices. Whether you want to streamline customer support, recover abandoned carts, or drive sales with visual campaigns, LINK Mobility can help you design, deliver, and optimize powerful RCS flows.